I’m obviously convinced enough by this series to keep listening. There’s still something a little off about it though. I think I’ll blame the fact that Clary and Jace are brother and sister (supposedly). That idea makes me really uncomfortable, maybe as uncomfortable as it makes them.

Each character grows in their own way in this one. How could they not with all the things they go through? Clary has to confront the fact that she is a Shadowhunter. She’s not normal anymore. She also has to deal with her attraction to Jace. They both realize that they love each other in a way they shouldn’t. Jace surprises me with an admission about love and how he feels about Clary. I was proud of him for being honest with her. It’s so like him to put on bravado and hide his emotions. He becomes much more interesting when he’s vulnerable. I really love watching Simon’s character evolve. He grows up so much in this book. I can’t wait to watch him grow even more.

The plot was gripping. It never lagged, which is great for a book of its length. I’m often a little worried when I pick up audiobooks with 12 discs, especially in this genre. I’m always afraid I’ll be bored with it at some point. That was not the case with this one. I was so hooked on the story that sometimes I stayed a few minutes late at work to finish a chapter or a scene in the book. Something that makes me want to stay in the office longer definitely has my interest.

Clare’s writing is good. It’s simple and appropriate for the material. Natalie Moore was a great narrator. I like her so much more than Ari Graynor. She was perfect for this one, and I’m glad to see that she’ll be narrating the next one.